Are you a recent South African graduate looking to start a career in technology, engineering or business right now? The NTT DATA Young Talent Graduate Programme 2027 offers a fast‑track path into the professional world, and the deadline is fast approaching.
What the opportunity is
NTT DATA is running a graduate programme in Johannesburg, Gauteng. It combines real‑world work, structured learning, mentorship and industry‑recognised certifications. Successful candidates join as Associate Graduates and work on actual business projects while developing technical and leadership skills.
Who can apply (requirements)
- Completed, or graduating by December 2026, a three‑year Diploma or Degree in Information Technology, Commerce, Engineering or a related field.
- Preferably 26 years old or younger.
- South African citizens or permanent residents.
- Applicants outside Johannesburg must be willing to relocate at their own expense.
What you will gain
- Hands‑on experience in a large technology company.
- Access to structured learning pathways and recognised certifications.
- Mentoring from experienced professionals.
- Opportunities to work on real business and technology projects.
- Development of problem‑solving, communication and leadership abilities.
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- Gather the following documents:
- Updated CV
- South African ID
- Matric certificate
- Diploma or Degree certificate (or proof of pending completion)
- Academic transcript
- Any relevant professional certifications
- Visit the official NTT DATA recruitment page and confirm that the vacancy is still open.
- Submit your application through the portal using reference R-149466. Apply here.
- Make sure to indicate your expected graduation date if you are still completing your studies.
- After submission, monitor your email for any communication from NTT DATA.
Tips to improve your chances
- Show real examples of problem‑solving, teamwork or leadership from university projects, internships or volunteer work.
- Highlight any hands‑on experience with programming, databases, cloud services, networking, cybersecurity or engineering design.
- Include any certifications you already hold (e.g., Microsoft, Cisco, CompTIA).
- Tailor your CV to the key skills listed in the job description – curiosity, adaptability, accountability and strong communication.
- Proofread your application to avoid simple spelling or formatting errors.
Next steps
If this programme matches your career goals, start preparing your documents today and apply before the 9 October 2026 deadline. Remember, the graduate job market is competitive, so keep looking for other graduate, internship or learnership opportunities that suit your qualification.
Programme details at a glance
| Programme Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Organisation | NTT DATA |
| Programme | Young Talent Graduate Programme 2027 |
| Position | Associate Graduate |
| Reference Number | R-149466 |
| Location | Johannesburg, South Africa |
| Employment Type | Full Time |
| Target Group | Recent graduates |
| Preferred Age Group | Ideally 26 years or younger |
| Minimum Qualification | Three‑year Diploma or Degree |
| Fields | Information Technology, Commerce, Engineering or related |
| Qualification Completion | By December 2026 |
| Relocation | Applicants outside Johannesburg must relocate at own cost |
| Advertised Closing Date | 9 October 2026 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the NTT DATA Young Talent Graduate Programme 2027?
A graduate development programme that blends workplace experience, mentorship, certifications and real project work.
Where is the programme based?
Johannesburg, South Africa.
What is the reference number?
R-149466.
What qualifications are required?
A three‑year Diploma or Degree in IT, Commerce, Engineering or a related field, completed or due by December 2026.
Can IT graduates apply?
Yes, IT is explicitly listed as a qualifying field.
Can Commerce graduates apply?
Yes, Commerce graduates are welcome.
Can Engineering graduates apply?
Yes, Engineering graduates are eligible.
Can final‑year students apply?
Yes, as long as the qualification will be completed by December 2026.
Is there an age limit?
The programme is aimed at graduates aged 26 years or younger.
What if I live outside Johannesburg?
You must be prepared to relocate at your own expense.
Does the programme include certifications?
Yes, industry‑recognised certifications are part of the development plan.
Will I work on real projects?
Yes, graduates contribute to actual business initiatives.
Can TVET College students apply?
Only if they hold a three‑year Diploma that matches the required fields; an N6 certificate alone does not meet the requirement.
Where can I research ICT careers and qualifications?
Use the SETA SA Career & Qualification Explorer to explore South African occupations, SAQA qualifications and NQF levels.
Which SETA is relevant to ICT careers?
MICT SETA focuses on media, information and communication technology pathways.
What is the advertised closing date?
9 October 2026, but verify the vacancy status on the official NTT DATA page.
Where do I apply?
Through the official NTT DATA recruitment page linked above.
